As an alternative to the previously presented TMR MnVAP and its commercial feeding allies replaced 10 lbs. of long stem hay in a lactating dairy cow ration with 5 lbs. of 23%. The resulting ration maintained overall milk production at significant cost savings.

These trials validated MnVAP's belief that is a viable alternative to the use of long stem hay in dairy cow rations.

The graphs on the next page represent the daily ration costs and yearly cost savings that can be obtained through the use of 5 lbs. of 23% vs. 10 lbs. of long stem hay/day/hd.

There may be additional cost savings on a farm by farm basis related to ease of handling and storage of 23% versus bulky long stem hay.

It is a commonly accepted premise that shrink due to moisture and bunk drag will consistently approach 30% when long stem hay is offered as a free choice option. When you compare the cost of 23% vs. long stem hay and 23% vs. the potential shrink related to long stem hay, the producer can obtain significant cost reduction and profitability increases when 23% is fed in their lactating dairy cow ration.

By looking at the facts it is evident that Minnesota grown alfalfa processed through MnVAP's proprietary separation processes can provide the dairy farmer with cost effective alternatives to long stem hay feeding. 23% is a valuable tool to farmers as they evaluate various methods to increase profitability in their operations into the new millennium.

Researchers and experienced managers know the benefits of providing sows with a source of roughage. In fact research suggests improved reproductive performance and greater litter size over sows fed rations without roughage. MnVAP's 23% Alfalfa Leaf Pellets allows the addition of roughage to diets fed through automated feeding systems. Consider also the savings without the need for expensive imported laxatives that have no other nutritional benefits. Consider the benefits of a low energy ration for your gestating sows.

This example Beef Backgrounding Ration would typically be fed from weaning to approximately 650 lbs. Most performance projections would project average daily gains at 2.50 lbs./hd./day, however, if fed free-choice gains might approach 3.50 lbs./hd./day. In this ration use of 23% Alfalfa Leaf Pellets will provide a higher quality source of alfalfa and a more consistent nutrient source than is usually offered in these type rations. Research shows that inclusion of 23% Alfalfa Leaf Pellets tend to increase consumption. On the practical side producers will enjoy a significant reduction in wind erosion losses normally suffered when grinding hay. 23% Alfalfa Leaf Pellets can be handled in bulk bins and are easily handled through automated mixing systems.

To order 23% Alfalfa Leaf Pellets as well as other Alfalfa Products, or to request technical information and nutritional assistance, contact us at: